The Difference Between a Crossover and an SUV

If you’ve been comparing vehicles and feel stuck choosing between crossovers and SUVs, you’re not alone. These terms pop up constantly, especially when you’re shopping for something like a Toyota RAV4, a Nissan Rogue, or a Ford Escape. At Berglund Toyota in Lynchburg, VA, we’re clearing the confusion by breaking down what each term really means – and how knowing the key differences can help you find the right fit for your lifestyle.

From compact SUV vehicles to full-size SUVs built on a truck chassis, there’s a wide range of choices. Understanding how crossovers and SUVs differ in build, performance, and use is a smart way to narrow down your search.

The Crossover Explained

A crossover utility vehicle – or simply “crossover” – is a blend of car and SUV DNA. Most crossovers are built on a unibody chassis, which means the body and frame are combined into a single structure. It’s the same platform used for cars and sedans, and this design offers a smoother ride, better fuel economy, and easier handling.

A Toyota crossover like the RAV4 is a great example. It provides the higher seating position and cargo flexibility many people want – without the weight and stiffness of a traditional SUV. It’s built on a car platform, not a truck frame, so it feels more like driving a car than a big SUV.

The SUV Breakdown

Traditional SUVs, on the other hand, are often built using body-on-frame construction, just like a truck. This means the body is mounted on a separate frame – usually one originally designed for pickup trucks. These SUVs are more rugged, with greater off-road ability and more towing capacity.

If you need something that can handle heavy loads, frequent trail use, or large family road trips, a full-size SUV like the Toyota Sequoia is going to meet those demands better than most crossover vehicles.

What Really Sets Them Apart?

When we talk about the difference between a crossover and an SUV, we’re really talking about how they’re built – and what that means for you as a driver. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Crossovers

• Built on a Car-Like Unibody Platform
• Typically Offers Better Fuel Efficiency
• Designed For Smooth, Everyday Driving
• Easier to Maneuver and Park in Urban Settings
• Often Marketed as Compact SUVs or Small SUVs

SUVs:

• Built on a Truck Chassis, with Higher Towing Capacity
• More Ground Clearance and Off-Roading Ability
• Stronger Frames for Larger Payloads
• Typically Rear-Wheel or Four-Wheel Drive
• Heavier Curb Weights and Often Higher Fuel Use

These types of vehicles are often chosen for their rugged durability, while crossovers are typically picked for efficiency, comfort, and ease of use.

So Why All the Confusion?

The term crossover has only been around since the early 2000s. Automakers started using it to market vehicles that look like SUVs but are built like cars. Many small SUV models are technically crossovers. They look rugged, but underneath, they ride like a sedan.

To make things more confusing, marketing sometimes uses these terms interchangeably. Many crossovers are still labeled as SUVs in sales material. That’s why understanding the key differences – especially the chassis type – can make a big impact when comparing your options.

Which One Is Right for You?

If you’re deciding between a crossover vs an SUV, think about what you really need in your next vehicle:

Go with a crossover if you:

• Spend most of your time on paved roads.
• Want a more fuel-efficient vehicle.
• Prefer easier parking and a quieter ride.
• Don’t need to tow or haul heavy loads.

Go with an SUV if you:

• Need real four-wheel drive for weather or terrain.
• Regularly tow boats, trailers, or campers.
• Drive on gravel, unpaved roads, or steep inclines.
• Want extra space for gear, passengers, or tools.

There’s also a middle ground. Some modern crossovers offer more rugged performance than ever before. For example, newer models of the Toyota RAV4 offer off-road trims with AWD systems and additional ride height – blurring the line between crossovers and traditional SUVs.

Let’s Make It Simple

At the end of the day, the biggest difference between a crossover and an SUV comes down to what’s underneath – unibody vs body-on-frame construction. While they might look similar on the surface, how they handle, tow, and ride are totally different.

Whether you’re after a compact daily driver like the RAV4 or need something with the muscle of a full-size SUV, Berglund Toyota is here to help you make the right choice.

Ready to Compare in Person?

Stop by Berglund Toyota in Lynchburg, VA, to test drive a range of crossover vehicles and SUVs side-by-side. We’ll walk you through all the key differences, from truck chassis builds to unibody vehicles, and help you find the best fit for your life. Schedule your visit online or give us a call today – we’ll help you sort through the specs so you can drive away with confidence.

Disclaimer: This content was drafted with AI assistance for initial drafting, reviewed by a subject-matter expert for accuracy, and edited by our team of writers and editors.